World of Writer Mom

Friday, May 23, 2025

Inspiring Others to Make a Difference

Inspiring others to make a difference
Originally published 11/12/2020 at World of Writer Mom
by: M.B.Varville-Rodriguez

It is important to recognize that what we say and how we say it can create a mood or vibe. The nuances of language are complex. Words contain power in their presentation. And it's not just the words that create energy. Your approach and how you care for others is infused into your messages. Daily interactions provide insights into how you feel, your intent, and what you find important in life. The way you choose to communicate is the result of many variables including:

LIFE EXPERIENCES

PERSONAL STRUGGLES & SURVIVALS

KNOWLEDGE ON VARIOUS TOPICS

SELF-AWARENESS OF STRENGTHS/CHALLENGES/TRIGGERS

UNDERSTANDING OF HUMAN DEVELOPMENT THROUGHOUT LIFE CYCLE

ABILITY TO ASSIMILATE INFORMATION AND APPLY IT TO SITUATIONS

COPING SKILLS/ABILITY TO EVALUATE INTERACTIONS WITH OTHERS

Mikki Williams

I had the pleasure of attending a workshop presented by Mikki Williams several years ago during an AFAA certification conference in Frankfurt, Germany. Not only is she an expert storyteller, but she is also an incredible inspirational speaker. Mikki has a talent for grabbing her audience's attention and making them think about the possibilities available in life and in business. At the conference I attended, she also shared her creative choreography talents as a dancer. Our group of exercise/fitness instructors learned how to build fun cardio routines for our classes. But even more than that, we learned how important it is to recognize each person's unique story and incorporate that into our work as fitness instructors. It was a moment in my personal history that made a lasting impression. And isn't that what communication is about? We all hope that something we say or do will help others in their journey. Mikki shared that we cannot "motivate" others to do what we think they need to be doing. But we can "inspire" them to make choices and changes. Remembering this has helped me countless times and in many areas of my life. Years after I saw Mikki, she continues to offer insights via her web page. I recently decided to get recertified in group fitness after remembering how much I enjoyed teaching. I signed up for classes and just received my study materials. (After connecting with Mikki on LinkedIn, those memories of her workshop came flooding back.) So check out Mikki's site and find out all the amazing things she has to offer. You will find inspiration.

James and Susan Divine

We arrived at the door leading to the band room at the same time. (If I am remembering correctly.) I was very introverted and nervous about my first day of high school. His kind smile and greeting immediately put me at ease, and that day was the beginning of a lasting friendship. Throughout our four years in band, he was the big brother I needed, my ride home from band practices and games, and the person I trusted no matter what. I watched him grow in confidence and was happy for him when he fell in love with the woman he would one day marry. All that time, I never once suspected he held on to a dark secret that haunted him. I didn't find out until many years later when we ended up reconnecting. James is an accomplished musician, author, and inspirational speaker who has helped many individuals realize there is life beyond trauma. He is a teacher and advocate for those who need to find their voice. His most amazing accomplishments are being a husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many. I know that one day I'll get my books published too, because James has written about how it can be done even when you are busy and going in a million directions. And because I know James confronted his trauma, I have been able to reassure others that they too can overcome theirs. Check out what he has done. You will find inspiration.

World of Writer Mom's Communication Tips

Three things that create roadblocks to communication:

1. Assumptions 2. Expectations 3. Generalizations

Sunday, June 23, 2024

Lead by Example ~ They are Paying Attention!

Originally published 02/08/2014

at Reflections Beneath the Poetz Tree
by: M.B.Varville-Rodriguez

This week I have had several opportunities to read parenting insights, articles of interest, and various postings through social media. I have been astounded at the number of self-deprecating comments that are made - mostly by women. Why is it so hard for us to acknowledge our accomplishments and celebrate our successes? Do we not feel deserving of the compliments we receive? I have at times acquiesced to this behavior as well. Historically women have allowed themselves to feel that they must be the support system, cheering section, and behind the scenes pit crew for the work force rat race. Is that really what we want to demonstrate for our children?

Children will absorb the lessons they observe from us as their adult role models. When we downplay our achievements, brush off compliments, or minimize our roles, we send a clear message that we are not worthy of our successes. If humility has a place in our lives, then so should accomplishments. We may not even realize how important it is to demonstrate confidence in our abilities and skills. Children need to see that we can solve problems, cope with emergencies, and demonstrate self-sufficiency when things do not go as planned.

So the next time you receive a compliment on something you worked to achieve or on a personal attribute with which you are gifted, it's OK to smile and say, "Thank You." Recently I received a compliment regarding my parenting skills from a school counselor. I replied with, "Wow. I feel really humbled." She responded with a firm tone, "There's no need for humility." That was an eye opener. I am grateful she was so candid with me. Women need to remind each other that it's more than OK to acknowledge our awesomeness.

How wonderful it would be if we all felt supported and willing to surround ourselves with positive and uplifting advice, compliments, and encouragement. Likewise, it would be soul rewarding to accept advice on how we can rethink our perceptions so that we can continue to learn and grow. I have been the recipient of such wisdom. It was not always easy to hear, but when I thought about the implications, I chose to take the advice to heart. Women can either chose to sabotage each other's efforts or they can choose to mentor and inspire each other. How will you choose to develop your legacy?

Have a Wonderful Week filled with positive and uplifting interactions. If that becomes a challenge, maybe it's time to rethink who inspires you and brings out the best in you. I will continue to do the same. Thank You to all my fellow writers, friends, and family who are my inspirations. I will make an effort to provide compliments, referrals, support, and loving reminders.

Speaking engagements & Advocacy Coaching

Contact me at mbvrodriguez3@yahoo.com for information to schedule

a presentation, inspirational speech, or coaching session

to advocate for your personal cause or concern.

I can also assist with written communication needs.

Rates are negotiable.

Sunday, June 16, 2024

Summertime Reminder: More Mess = More Fun (Mostly)

This article first appeared on the following site on July 5, 2016

Reprinted here with revisions.

Monkey Bars, Mud Pies, and Movement
by: M.B.Varville-Rodriguez

PLAY UNTIL YOUR CLOTHES ARE DIRTY!
by:M.B.Varville-Rodriguez

💜

It's O.K. to let the kiddos enjoy a water play fountain or mud puddle once in a while. One of the best memories I have from childhood is when my younger brother and I played in a huge mud puddle outside our home. We were covered in mud and totally soaked in dirty water. My parents, unbeknownst to us, were filming our antics. They have the evidence that I encouraged my brother to dip his hair into the filthy muck and we both laughed as the muddy water trickled down his face when he lifted his head. We had a blast and I'm still amazed that my parents actually let us do that. My mother said that she never could get all that mud out of our clothing no matter how many times she washed them. But that memory is priceless. Documenting memories is an investment in your family's history!

Don't worry, my brother got me back many times over. He could tell me a story with a straight face, and I always believed him. I kinda still do. His jokes are legendary, and I love it when he sends me my favorite "Far Side" cartoons. But the amount of fun we had as kids often involved getting as much mud, dirt, and water on ourselves as possible before the streetlights came on at night.

Let's paint, create with play dough, cook in the kitchen,

and make blanket tents!

Kids need lots of opportunities to explore, play, and get messy. I remember a day when I took my three children to a park right after it rained. I had not anticipated the play area would be so flooded. The kids were restless and didn't care that the ground beneath the swing set was muddy. They had been in the house all day and needed to play. I hadn't planned for it but went ahead and let them get messy. They laughed, had fun, and even made-up stories to go along with their muddy adventure. I couldn't help but laugh with them as I recalled my own muddy memories. We finally decided to go home when it became too chilly, and the wind picked up. I didn't even mind the clean-up of both car and kids following our visit to the park.

Here are a few things to remember if it's hard for you to get on board with the tremendous messes

that come with childhood:

Summertime Reminders

1. Kids are washable. A bit of bath water and some soap and most of them clean up well.

2. Messy memories are some of the best ones. We also loved lots of finger painting that

often reached beyond their fingertips, play dough, cookie creations with lots of flour

everywhere, and bubbles. All of these required clean up.

3. Dirt, sand, and grass stains were the result of many creative play adventures. Kids learn

through play. Let them have opportunities to explore and get messy! Then take them to

the laundry mat for a whole new adventure! (Lol)

4. Don't worry too much about the clothes. They outgrow them pretty fast anyways. Also,

shop at thrift stores like Good Will and The ARC to save on clothing costs. Then you

won't feel as bad when the clothes get messed up. Save other clothes for special

occasions if you'd like but be prepared to take pictures right after putting them on the

kiddos. Chances are, that adorable outfit won't stay clean very long.

5. Kids LOVE projects! When my siblings and I were growing up, my mother signed up to

receive craft kits once a month. This kept us occupied and allowed our family to create

some incredibly fun things: Candle making, Macrame plant hangers, Decoupage

decorations for the wall, Cross stitch Christmas ornaments, and so many more!

Inside Secrets of a Former Child Development Teacher

TIP: If your child attends a full day childcare program/school, please expect that at some point those clothes will become dirty. Please do NOT send them in their best outfits and expect them to look the same way at the end of the day. They need to have fun, and the teachers need to worry about other things besides keeping clothes clean.

I have to remind myself on a daily basis that messes comes with childhood. Now that my three children are much older, I do have expectations that they pick up their room and try to keep the house clean. (And that battle is for another blog.)

As I write this, their rooms reflect a disaster of epic proportions, and I am trying to breathe through the trauma that occurs when I walk past their door....one I try to keep closed. But for now, I'll smile at the messy memories as we work toward that next stage in their development.

Happy Monday everyone!